Local Journalism Initiative helps Bayfm help the community

Friday, 15 March 2024 12:00

By Tonya Organ

It recently received a nearly $60 million infusion to continue for another three years.

The Local Journalism Initiative (LJI) is a federally funded program to encourage more local news coverage across the country. It recently received a nearly $60 million infusion to continue for another three years. Federal Rural Economic Development and ACOA Minister joined Bayfm’s Lenny Benoit to talk about the initiative and what it means to communities, like Corner Brook. Benoit says when the LJI first came out, Bay of Islands Radio, which is now Bayfm, jumped on the opportunity to apply. He says no one owns Bayfm so that means we are not driven by profits or corporations. Minister Hucthings says the world has changed and sadly, local media has taken a hit. She says having a full time journalist allows Bayfm to do more in the community. Hutchings says this funding allows an opportunity to tell stories in a way everyone can relate to. A news story by Bayfm last November concerned a story about the Corner Brook Fire Department Toy Drive being broken into and several thousands of dollars worth of toys were destroyed. Within 24 hours of airing the story, they had more than enough to replace what was vandalized.

To report an error, submit a news tip, or provide feedback, please e-mail news@bayfm.ca or call (709) 637-0183.

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